By DoD News, Defense Media Activity, / Published April 26,
2015
WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The U.S. has sent an Air Force aircraft
to Nepal to deliver personnel and cargo in support of disaster-relief
operations, according to Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Steve Warren.
A 7.9-magnitude earthquake hit the country yesterday,
reportedly leaving almost 2,500 dead, about 6,000 injured and thousands more
still missing. In addition, thousands of people are currently reported to be
without food, water or shelter.
"This morning at approximately 11:18 a.m., a U.S. Air
Force C-17 Globemaster (III) departed from Dover Air Force Base bound for
Nepal," Warren said in a statement released April 26. "The aircraft
is transporting nearly 70 personnel, including a USAID Disaster Assistance
Response Team, the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue team and several
journalists, along with 45 square tons of cargo."
The flight is expected to arrive at Tribhuvan International
Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, on April 27, according to Warren.
The initial estimated cost for the U.S. Defense Department's
support is approximately $700,000, and there are currently no additional
requests for DOD support, officials said on background.
There are 26 DOD personnel and one U.S. C-130 Hercules in
Nepal who were there to conduct a previously scheduled training exercise. All
DOD personnel in Nepal are accounted for, officials said.
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